Why We Love Florida, Plus Where to Stay & How Much it Will Cost You
Are you bummed out that summer has ended? Maybe it’s time to book a flight to The Sunshine State! Florida offers incredible whether year-round, so pack your flip flops and sunscreen and head down south!
Why do we love the perpetual vacation state? Check out our reasoning below, plus where to stay and base prices for each hotel option
Why We Love Florida
1. Florida Beaches are Hard to Beat
All along the peninsula of Florida you will find beaches made of soft white sand nestled against teal blue warm waters. Is there anything more relaxing than a Florida sunset? We think not! Some of our favorite Florida beaches include Marco Island, Naples, and St. Petersburg/Clearwater Beach. Scroll to the bottom of this post to see where to stay and base pricing.
2. Stunning Golf Courses
Beyond the beach, Florida is also a great destination for golf enthusiasts. You won’t have to travel far from the coast to get in a quick 18. Naples is one of the best golf destinations in Florida, and we suggest staying at La Playa Beach and Golf Resort. Scroll down for prices at this stunning resort, and check out more options here.
3. World-Class Cuisine
The Florida food scene has gained national attention recently, and one of the best places to experience this is in the St. Pete/Clearwater area. This beach town is full of celebrity chef restaurants like Locale Market. This go-to spot in St. Petersburg is home to celebrity chefs Michael Mina and Don Pintabona and is known for the gourmet ingredients they use in their fresh pastas and seafood dishes.
Where to Stay
The options are endless when it comes to great Florida destinations for your next vaca. You can’t go wrong with any of the hotels we suggest below in the Marco Island/Naples area or in St. Pete/Clearwater.
1. The Beachcomber Beach Resort Hotel, St. Pete Beach
For a family-friendly hotel that won’t break the bank, check into the 3-star Beachcomber Beach Resort Hotel. Located on its own private beach on St. Pete Beach, The Beachcomber provides a resort style atmosphere on almost 6 acres of lush tropical landscaped gardens. The location of this hotel offers convenience: it is close to Tampa International Airport and St. Petersburg Airport, Tropicana Field, local museums and aquariums, Lowry Park Zoo, Busch Gardens, and several public golf courses and tennis clubs.
A 3 night stay for 2 adults at The Beachcomber Beach Resort Hotel starts at $307. Call us at 402-281-3022 for details.
2. The Don Cesar, St. Pete Beach
Transport yourself to the Great Gatsby era when you check into the 4.5-star Don Cesar on St. Pete Beach. It is known as Florida’s “Pink Palace”, with its majestic pink exterior and striking architectural design. The hotel itself is a National Historic Landmark and a member of the Historic Hotels of America.
A 3-night stay for 2 adults at The Don Cesar starts at $777. Call us today at 402-281-3022 for more details.
3. Tradewinds Island Grand, St. Pete Beach
This large Florida resort is great for families and groups. You won’t even need to leave the property after you check into Tradewinds Island Grand, with plenty of superb dining options, thrilling watersports included in your stay, kids activities, and more. It even has extended-stay type suites with kitchenettes and multiple rooms for families.
A 3-night stay for 2 adults at Tradewinds Island Grand starts at $790. Call us today at 402-281-3022 for more details.
4. Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa, Marco Island
Nestled along miles of white-sandy beach, Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa appeals to families, spa-lovers and active travelers. Here you’ll find live nightly entertainment, comfortable suites with private furnished balconies overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, and more. Family-friendly amenities on the resort include babysitting services, a children’s activity program, and children’s menus at most of the restaurants. It is also conveniently located near world-class golf courses, the Florida Everglades National Park, and more.
A 3-night stay for 2 adults at Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa starts at $1,291. Call us today at 402-281-3022 for more details.
5. The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club, Naples
The historic Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club has been welcoming guests since 1946. With a 7-miles private beach and award-winning golf course on site, this is truly a playground by the sea. You’ll find an impressive spa, multiple pools, beachfront restaurants, and more. This is a great option for a breathtaking beach wedding.
A 3-night stay for 2 adults at The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club starts at $1,403. Call us today at 402-281-3022 for more details.
6. LaPlaya Beach and Golf Resort, Naples
The 4.5-star LaPlaya Beach and Golf Resort is the epitome of beachside luxury and relaxation. Stunning suites include large private balconies, Frette linens, goose-down pillows, and canopied beds made for sleeping til noon. Enjoy spectacular sunset views at the on-site upscale restaurant, then travel less than a mile to a new Bob Cupp-designed golf course. This boutique-style resort is a great option for a stateside honeymoon or destination wedding.
A 3-night stay for 2 adults at LaPlaya Beach and Golf Resort starts at $1,701. Call us today at 402-281-3022 for more details.
The temps are finally starting to rise, which means Florida beach weather is here! Check out these stunning Florida beach properties where you can stay for less than $200 per night.
St. Petersburg/Clearwater Beach
Alden Suites
Guests of Alden Suites can enjoy two sparkling pools, lighted tennis courts, a basketball court, a relaxing hot tub, and convenient outdoor gas grills, appealing to families and active travelers seeking affordable Gulf Coast amenities.
Packages start at $180/night.
The Beachcomber Beach Resort Hotel
Firstly, we have the Beachcomber Beach Resort and Hotel, located directly on St. Pete Beach, which provides a resort-style atmosphere on almost 6 acres of lush tropical landscaped gardens. Close to a number of local attractions, this affordable Florida Gulf Coast hotel offers great value for beachfront access. As a guest, you will enjoy an abundance of activities, which is perfect for a fun-filled family vacation or just a weekend getaway.
Packages start at $143/night.
Postcard Inn on the Beach
Next, check out Postcard Inn on the Beach. Right on the beautiful white sand of St. Pete, the Postcard Inn has everything you need for your vacation. The beach resort vibes on this property are enhanced by direct access to pristine white sands and proximity to Fort De Soto State Park. Postcard Inn on the Beach is one of the most affordable resorts in Florida for couples and groups.
Packages start at $153/night.
Barefoot Beach Resort
Barefoot Beach Resort is a luxury condominium property in Indian Shores Beach, Florida, just minutes from Clearwater Beach. Home to spectacular sunsets and an immaculate natural coastline, this charming beach community is what many would consider the “hidden gem” of Florida.
Guests can enjoy a peaceful “Old Florida” atmosphere with fully furnished condo-style suites featuring full kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to both the tranquil Intracoastal Waterway and the soft sands of Indian Shores Beach just across the street. The resort’s location puts you within walking distance of local dining favorites like Salt Rock Grill, while still being a short drive from attractions such as Clearwater Marine Aquarium and Fort De Soto State Park.
Packages start at $178/night
Sirata Beach Resort
Nestled among the soft, white sands of St. Pete Beach, Sirata Beach Resort welcomes you to a tropical retreat where you can sit back and relax or enjoy a vast array of activities. From family-friendly amenities to beach resort luxury at an affordable price, this Gulf Coast property offers both relaxation and convenience.
In addition to 13 acres of premier beachfront, Sirata Beach Resort is only 10 minutes from the excitement of downtown St. Petersburg and 30 minutes from Tampa International Airport. From upscale shopping to celebrated attractions, the convenient location offers easy access to the best of the Tampa/St. Petersburg area, but with so many superb options on-site you’ll never have to leave the resort if you don’t want!
Packages start at $186/night.
Fort Myers Beach
Wyndham Garden Fort Myers Beach
The Wyndham Garden at Fort Myers Beach is situated on Fort Myers’ beautiful Estero Island. As one of the more affordable beach resorts in Florida, it’s a great pick for families who want to escape to the Florida Gulf Coast. This one-of-a-kind resort puts the timeless beauty and natural luxury of Florida’s beaches right at your doorstep. With a great staff that is ready to make your beach vacation an unforgettable experience, you’ll be free to sit back, relax, and enjoy. Don’t forget to grab a tropical beverage or dining with casual flair at Pincher’s Beach Bar and Grill located on property.
Packages start at $155/night.
Sandpiper Gulf Resort
Sandpiper Gulf Resort is a charming Fort Myers Beach hotel set on the 315 feet of pure, white sand in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. With just 63 Fort Myers Beach suites, newly remodeled in classic British West Indies style, you’ll feel right at home. Sandpiper is your tranquil Gulf coast paradise. Yet, this Fort Myers Beach Hotel is just minutes from all sorts of activities including award-winning spa services, championship golf, fishing and boating charters, tennis clubs, shopping centers and movie theaters.
Packages start at $167/night.
The Outrigger Beach Resort
Packages start at $179/night.
Captiva Island
South Seas Island Resort
Lastly, we have South Seas Island Resort on Captiva Island. For decades, generations of families have made South Seas Island Resort the vacation destination of choice for making lasting memories. This iconic 330-acre wildlife preserve spans two and a half miles of shell-laden beaches framing the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
This resort is designed to take full advantage of the existing landscape, offering a destination rich in family recreation and wondrous natural beauty. Feel at home in an assortment of accommodations, ranging from charming villas and cottages, private homes and condos to comfortable hotel rooms. In addition, South Seas Island Resort was voted Top 10 Beach Resort for Families by Parents Magazine.
Packages start at $187/night.
Call us today in order to book your stay for under $200 at one of these beach resorts. You can reach us by calling 402-390-9291. In addition, you can get started here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cheapest resorts in Florida for a beach vacation?
Some of the most affordable resorts under $200 a night include Beachcomber Beach Resort Hotel, Postcard Inn on the Beach, The Outrigger Beach Resort, and Wyndham Garden Fort Myers Beach.
Are there affordable resorts in the Florida Keys or Key West?
Yes! While Key West resorts tend to be pricey, you can still find budget-friendly stays in nearby Key Largo and Marathon that offer a similar island experience.
Which affordable Florida resorts have white sand beaches?
Sirata Beach Resort in St. Pete Beach, Sandpiper Gulf Resort in Fort Myers Beach, and Postcard Inn on the Beach all have stunning white sands right outside your door.
Can I stay near a Florida state park for under $200?
Absolutely! Some resorts near Fort De Soto State Park and Lovers Key State Park offer rates under $200 and give you easy access to nature trails, kayaking, and scenic beaches.
Are there budget resorts near Florida’s theme parks?
Yes, while this list focuses mainly on the Gulf Coast, you can find affordable resorts in Orlando and Kissimmee starting under $150 a night, putting you close to Disney World and Universal Studios.